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Lobster toasts with avocado and Espelette pepper recipe

Lobster toasts with avocado and Espelette pepper are a delightful high-protein dish that brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering. Featuring succulent lobster meat, creamy avocado, and a hint of zest from lemon and tarragon, these toasts are a perfect marriage of flavours and textures. The rich brioche base adds a lovely contrast, making each bite a luxurious experience that is both satisfying and indulgent.

Ideal for a special occasion or a lavish brunch, these toasts not only impress but also provide a good dose of protein to fuel your day. Serve them as an elegant starter or alongside a crisp salad for a balanced meal. With just the right amount of seasoning from the vibrant Espelette pepper, they are sure to become a firm favourite among seafood lovers.

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Ingredients for Lobster toasts with avocado and Espelette pepper

  • kosher salt

  • 680 g live lobster or 225 g pre-cooked lobster meat

  • 45 ml mayonnaise

  • 15 ml crème fraîche

  • 10 ml lemon juice, divided

  • 2 g finely grated lemon zest

  • 5 g finely chopped tarragon, plus more (for sprinkling)

  • 5 g finely sliced chives

  • 1 hass avocado

  • 170 g brioche, crusts removed, cut into six 1.5 cm slices

  • piment d'Espelette or cayenne pepper (for sprinkling)

How to make Lobster toasts with avocado and Espelette pepper

  1. If using live lobster, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil and prepare a large bowl of ice water.

  2. Add the lobster to the boiling water, cover, and cook for 9 minutes until the shell is bright red all over.

  3. Drain the lobster and transfer it to the ice water to cool.

  4. Remove the meat from the claws, knuckles, and tail; pat the lobster meat dry with paper towels and cut it into 1 cm pieces.

  5. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crème fraîche, 1 tsp lemon juice, lemon zest, 1 tsp tarragon, and chives.

  6. Fold in the lobster meat and season with salt to taste.

  7. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with the remaining 1 tsp lemon juice and season with salt.

  8. Preheat the oven to 175°C (fan) or 190°C (conventional).

  9. Cut the brioche into twenty-four 4 cm squares.

  10. Toast the squares on a rimmed baking tray until lightly browned and dry, about 12 minutes.

  11. Spread the avocado onto the toasts and top with the lobster salad.

  12. Sprinkle with espelette pepper and tarragon, then serve.

Note: The lobster salad can be prepared up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate in an airtight container. The toasts can also be made up to 2 days in advance; store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 11 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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